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Elevated Community Hub with Steel Columns and Extensive Glass Facades Amid Wetland Views

Authors:
Bas Ten brinke, Anastasia Ciorici, Dragan Petrovic, Sanne Mulder
Elevated Community Hub with Steel Columns and Extensive Glass Facades Amid Wetland Views

Project in-detail

Elevated on slender steel columns, the visitor center blends extensive glass façades with a sustainable design to create an engaging educational space that enhances awareness of the local wetland ecosystem.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design on slender steel columns preserves the existing landscape.
02
Extensive use of glass facades maximizes natural light and views of the wetlands.
03
Dual ramps provide accessible pathways while encouraging visitor engagement with the environment.
04
Local materials selected to reflect and enhance the ecological context of the site.
05
Roof terrace offers panoramic vistas, creating a strategic viewing platform for wildlife observation.
The Flamingo Visitor Center serves as a vital architecture project located within a natural wetland reserve. This facility is designed to cater to visitors seeking to learn about the unique ecological context of the area, particularly its flamingo populations. The building not only functions as an information hub but also promotes environmental awareness and community engagement.

The project embodies a contemporary approach to architecture, with a focus on integrating the structure into its natural surroundings while minimizing environmental impact. By employing an elevated design, the center maintains the existing landscape and allows for unobstructed views of the wetlands. This elevation creates a seamless connection between the building and the surrounding ecosystem.

Unique Structural Design

The design features a dual-ramp system leading to a rooftop terrace, which provides panoramic views of the wetlands. This feature encourages visitors to engage with the environment from an elevated perspective, enhancing the connection between the architecture and nature. The use of steel columns to support the structure allows for a lightweight feel, further contributing to the project’s minimal ecological footprint.

The building's façades are predominantly glass, facilitating natural light and maintaining visual access to the landscape. The integration of locally sourced materials, like wood for various finishes and concrete for structural elements, reflects a commitment to sustainability. This careful selection of materials reinforces the architectural design while providing durability and aesthetic appeal.

Interior Spaces and Functionality

Internally, the Flamingo Visitor Center offers essential amenities, including a reception area, restrooms, a café, and office spaces on the ground floor. The design prioritizes visitor flow by ensuring that all areas are easily accessible. The first floor features an open space dedicated to exhibitions and educational activities, which can be adapted for various events, fostering ongoing engagement with the community.

The landscaping around the center incorporates shaded gardens that enhance biodiversity and serve as educational spaces for visitors. This aspect supports the project’s mission to promote environmental stewardship through active learning and engagement.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas and unique design approaches employed within the Flamingo Visitor Center, viewers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Details on architectural plans, sections, and design elements are available to provide further insights into this significant architectural endeavor.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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